Registration Opens for 4th Edition of Bonny Kingdom Boat Regatta

The waters of Bonny Kingdom will come alive on December 26, 2026, as the Bonny Kingdom Boat Regatta Festival returns for its fourth edition, with 14 chieftaincy houses expected to battle for ₦6 million in cash prizes.

Organisers of the annual festival, Grafton Entertainment, in a statement said registration has officially opened for chieftaincy houses across Bonny Kingdom, setting the stage for another colourful celebration of the kingdom’s rich maritime heritage which has become a celebration of culture, community and unity. It says this year’s festival will form part of celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of His Majesty, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, Perekule XI, Amanyanabo of Grand Bonny Kingdom.

Registration is open from September 1 and will close on September 30, 2026. Only 14 chieftaincy houses from Bonny Kingdom will be admitted, with participation on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to registration and final assessment by the organisers.

₦1.2m support for each house

To help participating houses prepare for the competition, Grafton Entertainment says each confirmed house will receive an official participation kit and ₦1.2 million in mobilisation support.

The top three houses will also compete for:

• 1st place — ₦3 million

• 2nd place — ₦2 million

• 3rd place — ₦1 million

With only 14 slots available, the organisers have urged interested chieftaincy houses to register early.

Jecky Green House expected back

The 2026 edition will also revive interest in Jecky Green House, following a notable moment at last year’s festival when the Amanyanabo gifted the house a gig through a ballot. Jecky Green House is expected to make a strong showing in this year’s fleet, setting the stage for another competitive contest on the waterways.

How to register

Registration forms are available from September 1 at Grafton’s Place, No. 24 King William Dappa Pepple Road, Bonny Island. Completed forms must be returned to the same address by September 30, 2026.

Enquiries: +234 810 081 7489
Media & Sponsorship: graftonentertainment@gmail.com

When the boats take to the water on December 26, the contest will be about more than speed. For the competing houses, it will be a battle for pride, prestige and the honour of finishing first. The question is: which chieftaincy house will rule the waters of Bonny in 2026?